A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Kuala Lumpur vs. Dunedin for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Kuala Lumpur or Dunedin?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Kuala Lumpur and Dunedin. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur is a diverse, colorful, and historic city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, Kuala Lumpur attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Kuala Lumpur travel costs.

Dunedin

Dunedin is a vibrant, small, and hilly city. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums. See Dunedin travel costs.

Kuala Lumpur and Dunedin: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kuala Lumpur or Dunedin?

You'll generally find more things to do in Kuala Lumpur than Dunedin. Kuala Lumpur is bigger than Dunedin, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Kuala Lumpur is better known for its museums and attractions, food, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Dunedin is more popular for its beaches and hiking. Kuala Lumpur is more touristy than Dunedin and is popular for its blend of cultures and cuisines, its mix of modern and colonial, and its bustling neighborhoods with markets and restaurants. Also, Kuala Lumpur is famous for The Petronas Twin Towers. Dunedin is well known for its wildlife and proximity to the Otago Peninsula.

The Petronas Twin Towers

How is Kuala Lumpur different from Dunedin?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Dunedin and Kuala Lumpur. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Kuala Lumpur or Dunedin?

Kuala Lumpur is an unbeatable place for its museums and landmarks. Also, Dunedin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Kuala Lumpur on the map. The most notable landmark in the city is the famed Petronas Twin Towers, but other popular sights include Merdeka Square, Kuala Lumpur Tower, and the National Museum.

Many visitors head to Dunedin specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city has cultural scene that is centered around both Scottish and Maori heritage. Top sights around town include the Larnach Castle, the Dunedin Railway Station, Toitu Otago Settlers Museum, and the Otago Museum.

Is the Food Better in Kuala Lumpur or Dunedin? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Kuala Lumpur is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. Also, Dunedin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Kuala Lumpur is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The food is influenced by the populations that live here and you'll find a lot of Malay, Chinese and Indian flavors. Spicy curries and noodle dishes are very common. Street food is also a mainstay in this city and it's an experience to wander the market streets and sample dishes from the different vendors.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Dunedin. The culinary scene in town continues to grow and improve. There are local eateries that have charm and character and serve interesting and local dishes.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Dunedin Better for Nightlife?

The superb nightlife scene is relatively similar in Kuala Lumpur and Dunedin.

Kuala Lumpur has a large number of nightlife venues. Rooftop bars and lounges are popular hangout spots after the sun sets. For classy pubs and clubs head to the Golden Triangle district, but if drinking and partying isn't your thing, the city's night markets are not to be missed.

Dunedin is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The town has eclectic bars and a diverse club scene that is fun to experience. It has a lively nightlife scene that is driven, in part, by the large student population.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Dunedin Better for Beaches?

Dunedin is a good destination for its beaches. However, Kuala Lumpur is not a beach destination.

Dunedin offers a nice beach destination. Many of the beaches are just a short drive from the city center. The surf is surprisingly good and the beaches are fun during the warmer summer months.

Kuala Lumpur is not a beach destination.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Dunedin Better for Hiking?

Dunedin is a good destination for its hiking trails. However, Kuala Lumpur is not a hiking destination.

Dunedin offers some nice hiking trails. There are biking and hiking trails that travel around town and through the surrounding landscapes.

Kuala Lumpur is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Kuala Lumpur or Dunedin?

Kuala Lumpur is an unbeatable place for its shopping areas. Also, Dunedin is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Kuala Lumpur is a world class destination for shoppers. The city is filled with shopping malls, and a big appeal of shopping in this city is the very affordable prices. Some of the most popular shopping malls are Suria KLCC at the base of the Petronas Towers as well as the malls in the Bukit Bintang/Jalan Imbi areas.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Dunedin. The shopping scene is diverse and eclectic with everything from vintage shops to fashion boutiques. Some of the most popular shopping areas are Edinburgh Way, Octagon Entertainment Precinct, Moray Place, and the Warehouse Precinct.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Dunedin More Beautiful?

Kuala Lumpur is well known for its scenery and beauty. However, Dunedin is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Kuala Lumpur attracts visitors from all around. This city's beauty really comes from the welcoming and helpful personality of its residents, but the neighborhoods also have historic charm and character.

Dunedin is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Dunedin Better for Families?

Both Kuala Lumpur and Dunedin are superb family-friendly destinations.

Kuala Lumpur is a very family-friendly destination. This family-friendly city includes a surprising number of opportunities to experience wildlife. There's an aquarium, petting zoos, and places to see the wild monkeys. There are also large playgrounds including one by the Petronas Towers. Kids will also enjoy exploring the Botanical Gardens, Butterfly Park, and the Forest Eco Park.

Dunedin is a very kid-friendly city. It's one of the largest cities on the South Island, and there are many educational opportunities and unique experiences available to kids. You can visit the Otago Museum or the Toitu Otago Settlers Museum, take a wildlife cruise, or visit the Larnach Castle. You can also take a ride on the Inlander or simply hang out at a playground.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Dunedin Better for Couples?

Kuala Lumpur is well known for couples. Also, Dunedin is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Couples visit Kuala Lumpur frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. This city has diverse restaurants and a number of luxury hotels at affordable prices. For couples who enjoy romance on a budget, this is a good city.

Dunedin is a nice destination for couples. You can wander through the castle or explore one of the city's markets. There are also romantic restaurants and many opportunities to see wildlife.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Dunedin Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kuala Lumpur and Dunedin are both superb destinations for backpackers.

Kuala Lumpur is very popular with the backpacker crowd. This is a popular stop for backpackers on the Southeast Asia circuit. It's modern and comfortable but also affordable and diverse. The city has a number of affordable hostels, but it also has a more laid back and authentic vibe than you'll find in many other Southeast Asian cities. The city also isn't as touristy as some other cities, so the people are down to Earth and helpful without being jaded by all of the vacationers.

Dunedin is a great city to visit for backpackers. There are many hostels around town and plenty of activities that keep backpackers entertained.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Dunedin Better for Students?

Kuala Lumpur is an unbeatable place for students. Also, Dunedin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Many students frequent Kuala Lumpur. It's affordability, diversity, and dynamic atmosphere make this a great city for international students.

Dunedin is very popular with students. This is a large student city that is welcoming to international students and a popular place to study.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Dunedin Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Kuala Lumpur is an unbeatable place for its public transit. Also, Dunedin is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Visitors in Kuala Lumpur can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. The system is relatively easy to navigate with most signs in English. There are buses, a monorail, light rail transit and commuter trains.

While Dunedin offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There a relatively decent bus system that travels through town.

Is Kuala Lumpur or Dunedin a more walkable city?

Kuala Lumpur and Dunedin are superb when it comes to walkability.

Kuala Lumpur is very walkable. Traffic can be congested, but there are many wide sidewalks and pedestrian areas around town. The River of Life waterfront area offers nice paths that connect many tourist areas.

Dunedin is a very walkable city. Parts of the town are easy to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Kuala Lumpur Worth Visiting? and Is Dunedin Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Dunedin or Kuala Lumpur?

How long in Kuala Lumpur or Dunedin?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Kuala Lumpur and Dunedin. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Kuala Lumpur than in Dunedin. Usually, 1-5 days is a good amount of time for Kuala Lumpur, and 1-3 days is enough time in Dunedin.

Families should spend more time in Kuala Lumpur than Dunedin. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Kuala Lumpur, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Kuala Lumpur than Dunedin. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Kuala Lumpur that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Kuala Lumpur than Dunedin if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Kuala Lumpur.

One day in Kuala Lumpur or Dunedin?

Because Kuala Lumpur is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

In Dunedin, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this hilly city offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this city.

A weekend in Kuala Lumpur or Dunedin?

Because Kuala Lumpur is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Kuala Lumpur has to offer.

Dunedin is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Kuala Lumpur or Dunedin?

Kuala Lumpur is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Kuala Lumpur has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the hilly destination of Dunedin. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Kuala Lumpur or Dunedin?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kuala Lumpur. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Kuala Lumpur. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Dunedin is a popular place to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to Malaysia, The Best G Adventures Tours to Malaysia, The Best Adventure Tours to New Zealand, and The Best Eco Tours in New Zealand.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Kuala Lumpur and Dunedin, we can see that Dunedin is more expensive. And not only is Kuala Lumpur much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Kuala Lumpur is in Asia and Dunedin is in Pacific, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Kuala Lumpur would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Kuala Lumpur and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Dunedin would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Dunedin than you might in Kuala Lumpur.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Kuala Lumpur Expensive? and Is Dunedin Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Kuala Lumpur or Dunedin?

Kuala Lumpur has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Dunedin. When comparing the sizes of Kuala Lumpur and Dunedin, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.